Rockford, Rockton home invasion suspects mull possible guilty plea

ROCKFORD — A defendant in a pair of violent 2013 home invasions continues to mull over a decision that could mean decades in prison.

Coreyon Brown, 19, has not formally backed out of entering a guilty plea. But on Thursday — for a second consecutive appearance before Judge Fernando Engelsma since July 16 — Brown asked for more time to consider his options and negotiate with Winnebago County prosecutors.

The guilty plea as proposed now would mean 33 to 60 years in prison. Going to trial risks a sentence of up to natural life in prison.

Brown, 19, of Roscoe, and Cortez J. Brown, 21, of Rockford, were arrested in connection with robberies and attacks April 25, 2013, at the residence of Colleen and Jack Holmbeck on Imperial Oaks Drive in Rockford, and May 2, 2013, at the house of Roger and Kay Schramm in rural Rockton.

Jack Holmbeck was shot and Colleen Holmbeck was beaten. Roger and Kay Schramm were hospitalized after the break-in, and their two dogs were shot and killed.

Cortez and Coreyon, who are not related, have both pleaded not guilty. Cortez Brown’s case is pending.

Coreyon Brown’s court-appointed Assistant Public Defender Bradford Morrisson told Engelsma he is still attempting to work with the state.